Calcitriol

Calcitriol (INN) or 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (abbreviated 1,25-(OH)2D3) is the active form of vitamin D found in the body (vitamin D3). It is produced in the kidneys by conversion from 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcidiol) and regulates calcium levels by increasing the absorption of calcium from the gastrointestinal tract. Calcitriol is also commonly used as a medication in the treatment of hypocalcaemia and osteoporosis. Calcitriol is marketed under various trade names including Rocaltrol (Roche) and Calcijex (Abbott).

Indications

Calcitriol is indicated for:

  • Treatment of hypocalcaemia – hypoparathyroidism, osteomalacia (rickets), renal osteodystrophy, chronic renal dialysis
  • Treatment of osteoporosis
  • Prevention of corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis

    Calcitriol is also sometimes used topically in the treatment of psoriasis, however the evidence to support its efficacy is inconclusive. The vitamin D analogue calcipotriol is more commonly used for psoriasis.

    Adverse effects

    The main adverse drug reaction associated with calcitriol therapy is hypercalcaemia – early symptoms include: nausea, vomiting, constipation, anorexia, apathy, headache, thirst, sweating, and/or polyuria). Compared to other vitamin D compounds in clinical use (cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol), calcitriol has a higher risk of inducing hypercalcaemia. However, such episodes may be shorter and easier to treat due to its relatively short half-life.

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